Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2008

Publication Title

G4G8 Exchange Book

First Page

56

Last Page

57

Abstract

All five Platonic solids have been used as random number generators in games involving chance with the cube being the most popular. Martin Gardenr, in his article on dice (MG 1977) remarks: "Why cubical?... It is the easiest to make, its six sides accomodate a set of numbers neither too large nor too small, and it rolls easily enough but not too easily."

Gardner adds that the octahedron has been the next most popular as a randomizer. We offer here several problems and games using octahedral dice. The first two are extensions from Gardner's article. All answers will be given later.

Rights

This is an electronic copy of a paper originally appearing in the G4G8 Exchange Book. Archived with permission. The author(s) reserves all rights.

Notes

Gathering for Gardner inspires fun and wonder for recreational mathematics, magic, puzzles, and art. The G4G Gift Exchange is an integral part of the Gathering 4 Gardner meetings. Each attendee is asked to participate in the G4G Gift Exchange.

The G4G Exchange Book is for those who wish to submit papers as their exchange gift and also for those who wish to include descriptions, instructions, solutions etc. related to their physical gifts.

Download

Share

COinS